The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announces a significant overhaul in its fee payment process for benefit request forms. Most applicants, petitioners, and requestors, along with their legal representatives, can now opt for a streamlined approach, submitting payments by mail or remotely, eliminating the need for in-person visits to field offices.

This progressive change allows applicants the flexibility to send either a check or Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, to the designated field office alongside their benefit request. A careful review of filing instructions is advised to ensure eligibility for mail or remote submission and to verify the correct filing location. Incorrect filings will be returned, prompting applicants to resubmit to the appropriate office. The revamped process is anticipated to save both time and expenses by eliminating the requirement for office appointments.

Additionally, attorneys and accredited representatives now have the convenience of processing payments for EOIR-29, Notice of Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals from a Decision of a DHS Officer, through a provided link in email or via text from the USCIS Contact Center. Following payment processing, legal representatives must mail their client’s EOIR-29, EOIR-2, EOIR-27 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative Before the Board of Immigration Appeals), and the Pay.gov receipt to the designated field office.

However, it’s crucial to note that emergency advance parole (EAP) requests, specifically those submitted with Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, and an EAP request, remain an exception to the new process. Applicants pursuing EAP must continue to schedule an appointment with the USCIS Contact Center, apply in person with the completed package and supporting documentation, and make the application fee payment (if applicable) using Form G-1450 or by check at the field office.

Source: USCIS